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Lead Technician, Composites

Ft Worth, TX

About Otto Aviation  

OTTO is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aviation is designing world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.  

 About the Role 

We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Composites Technician to support advanced composite part fabrication and assembly as we transition from development to production. This role is responsible for executing high-quality composite layups, guiding a small team of technicians, and supporting manufacturing engineering in the development of repeatable, certifiable build processes. 

What You’ll Do 

  • Execute composite part fabrication, including prepreg layup, vacuum bagging, curing, trimming, bonding, and surface prep 
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, ply schedules, and process specifications 
  • Mentor and train junior composite technicians, ensuring proper techniques and process adherence 
  • Support tool prep and mold maintenance for reusability and dimensional stability 
  • Collaborate with manufacturing and design engineers to provide feedback on manufacturability and tooling fit 
  • Conduct in-process inspections to ensure workmanship meets quality standards and tolerance requirements 
  • Lead team coordination on shift, tracking progress against work orders and escalating blockers 
  • Support rework, repair, and post-cure processes as needed 
  • Maintain cleanroom standards, material handling controls, and inventory of composite supplies 
  • Champion safety protocols, PPE use, and chemical handling procedures in alignment with EHS standards 

Who You Are 

Education 

  • High school diploma or GED required; additional technical training or certifications in composite fabrication preferred 

Experience 

  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in aerospace composite manufacturing 
  • Strong understanding of prepreg layup, vacuum bagging, bonding, and trimming processes 
  • Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and technical documentation 
  • Proven leadership or mentoring experience on a production floor or prototype shop 
  • Comfortable working with aircraft-size parts and large tooling 
  • Excellent attention to detail, quality mindset, and communication skills 

Preferred Experience 

  • Experience working on flight-critical components in an AS9100 or FAA-certified environment 
  • Familiarity with cleanroom operations, freezer storage controls, and out-time tracking 
  • Background in prototype, low-rate initial production (LRIP), or startup aerospace operations 
  • Knowledge of layup consumables, resins, adhesives, and surface prep chemicals 
  • Comfortable supporting first article build, tool prove-out, and manufacturing readiness assessments 

Where You'll Be  

**This role is on-site at our facility at Meacham Airport in Ft Worth, TX. You must be willing to relocate to our new site in Jacksonville, FL in 1-2 years

  Benefits  

Otto Aviation provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short term disability, voluntary long-term disability and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 15 paid holidays, and paid sick leave. Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.  

  Otto Aviation is an Equal Opportunity Employer   

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success. The more inclusive we are, the stronger we become. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.  

 #LI-Onsite

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